What category of drug has replaced benzodiazepines for treating anxiety disorders?

Benzodiazepines have traditionally been used for the treatment of anxiety disorders due to their effectiveness in providing rapid relief from symptoms. However, they also carry risks of dependence and withdrawal, leading to concerns about their long-term use.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) have increasingly become the preferred first-line treatment for anxiety disorders. This category of antidepressants works by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety over time. Unlike benzodiazepines, SSRIs are not associated with dependence, making them a safer option for chronic treatment. They can take several weeks to show their full effects, but they provide a more sustainable and manageable way to treat anxiety without the risks associated with benzodiazepines.

The use of SSRIs is supported by extensive research indicating their efficacy in treating not only generalized anxiety disorder but also social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. This broad acceptance in clinical practice illustrates how SSRIs have replaced benzodiazepines in many therapeutic contexts for anxiety management.